Dermot Whelan bids farewell to TodayFM: Two decades end with laughter and nostalgia

"AH SURE lookit, wasn't that it?!"

In a bittersweet moment that marked the end of an era, Dermot Whelan, one of Ireland's most beloved radio hosts, hosted his final show on TodayFM this Friday. With a mix of heartfelt goodbyes, laughter, and nostalgia, Dermot bid adieu to his loyal listeners who have tuned in to his show for countless mornings.

For 21 years, Dermot's charismatic voice, alongside his co-host Dave Moore, has graced the airwaves, bringing a blend of humor, wit, and a keen sense of connection to the Irish public. His unique ability to engage and uplift his audience during the early hours of the day has made him a household name, and his departure from the station marks the end of an era in Irish radio.

Colleagues and friends from the industry either called to the studio, or took to social media to express their gratitude and bid Dermot a heartfelt farewell. Messages poured in from celebrities, fellow radio hosts, and longtime listeners, all expressing their appreciation for Dermot's unique ability to brighten up their mornings and make them feel like a part of a larger, welcoming community.

Among those sharing their well-wishes online were funnyman Fred Cooke, sharing a selfie with the duo, as he expressed his sentiments: "Thank you Dermot and Dave for making my mornings so much easier!!!"

Thank you @DermotTodayFM and @DaveTodayFM for making my mornings so much easier!!! @TodayFM pic.twitter.com/wwgPdfolDP

— Fred Cooke (@CookeFred) August 11, 2023

Mr Tayto, mascot of the beloved Irish crisp brand, joined in the chorus with a playful nod to shared memories: "I’ll never forget the craic we had at the Euros in Paris 2016!"

Happy last show @DermotTodayFM I’ll never forget the craic we had at the Euros in Paris 2016! Keep it crispy, Mr.Tayto @DaveTodayFM @TodayFM pic.twitter.com/eanfKEI4HJ

— Mr.Tayto Ireland (@MrTaytoIreland) August 11, 2023

Irish band, Chasing Abbey, added their wishes for Dermot's future endeavors: "Best of luck with everything in the future lads and thanks for all throughout the years, Dermot."

Best of luck with everything in the future lads and thanks for all throughout the years ♥️♥️ @DermotTodayFM I’m sure you’ll miss it dearly ️‍♂️️‍♂️️‍♂️️‍♂️️‍♂️️‍♂️ all the love!! @DaveTodayFM @TodayFM pic.twitter.com/tmqWmNTKEo

— CHASING ABBEY (@ChasingAbbeyHQ) August 11, 2023

Comedian Kevin McGahern bid farewell to the "effortlessly funny human" on Twitter with a heartfelt message: "[He] has brought so much joy and laughter to our kitchens and cars every morning."

Farewell to @DermotTodayFM on his last ever show on @TodayFM
An effortlessly funny human who has brought so much joy and laughter to our kitchens and cars every morning. Best of luck on your new chapter Dermo x

— Kevin McGahern (@kevinmcgahern) August 11, 2023

Radio broadcaster Fergal d'Arcy shared a treasured snippet from his time alongside Dermot and Dave, acknowledging their influential role: "You inspired a generation of radio presenters."

Sat beside them for 6 years! Never a dull moment - thanks for the memories, inspiration and friendship ! You inspired a generation of radio presenters to try harder ❤️ #dermotanddave #todayfm pic.twitter.com/pmKEFqD1h1

— Fergal D'Arcy (@FERGDARCY) August 11, 2023

From Noni to Cheese and Crackers, it became clear that Dermot's ability to create lasting memories was a testament to his genuine rapport with his listeners, making his farewell all the more bittersweet.

With charm and humor, he now eagerly awaits new avenues to engage and delight audiences with his mindful career. As for Dave, from August 28, he will present an all new show, Dave Moore on TodayFM.